Brand mapping

ABSTRACT

A user uses a portable electronic device to select an image representative of a brand. In response to the user&#39;s selection of the image representative of the brand, the device automatically presents the user with an image of a map that indicates a current location of the device and shows one or more images representative of brand purchase sites where the selected brand may be accessed by the user.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/885,773, filed on Jan. 19, 2007, entitled“Consumer Brand Links,” which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Various conventional computer-based systems exist for displaying maps tousers. Such systems generally work in one of three ways:

-   -   1. A user actively specifies (inputs) location-identifying        information, such as an address or zip code, in response to        which the system generates and presents a map of the        user-specified location. Subsequently, the user might also be        able to specify a business name or category, in response to        which the system may display the location(s) of the specified        business name or type on the map. In general, such systems are        unable to determine a location of the device independent of user        input specifying a location or location-related information, and        therefore require a user to specify a location. While some such        systems may store previously entered location identifying        information specified by a user, these systems would not be        aware if a device changed location without further information        from the user. In the case of a system that requires a user to        specify a location or location-related information (meaning that        the system is not independently aware of the user's location),        the map is static and does not automatically update with        movement of the device, although map centering and scale may be        alterable by a user of such a system.    -   2. A system automatically identifies a location of a device, and        generates a map based on the location of the device. In this        case, the user may specify a business name or type, in response        to which the system may display the location(s) of the specified        business name or type on the map. Although the map position may        be updated in this case based on the location of the device, the        sequence of map selection followed by selection and then        presentation of a business type or name remain the same as in        the first type of system described.    -   3. A user specifies a business name or type, in response to        which the system displays the location(s) of the specified        business name or type on a map. Although in some instances a        user may be prompted for location-identifying information to        more closely determine the user's location, for example, such as        a city name or zip code, this makes use of the methodology        described with respect to the first type of system above.

The prior art, in general, enables a user to provide an address,business name, or business type, resulting in the identification of oneor more real property locations corresponding to the provided address,business name, or business type.

Users continually seek new and improved ways to find and view geographicinformation more quickly and easily. What is needed, therefore, areimproved techniques for enabling users to find and view suchinformation.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment of the invention, a user of a portable electronicdevice uses the device to select an image identifying a brand. Inresponse to the user's selection of the image identifying the brand, thedevice automatically presents the user with an image of a map thatindicates a current location of the device and shows one or more imagesrepresentative of brand access sites where products and/or services ofthe selected brand may be accessed (e.g., purchased) by the user. Forexample, if the user selects a logo for a particular brand of soft drinkproduct, the device may present the user with an image of a map that hasbeen automatically centered about the current location of the user andthat shows shops, restaurants, vending machines, etc. where soft drinkproducts having the selected brand may be accessed (e.g., purchased).Products and services having a particular brand may be available forpurchase at multiple brand access sites that sell a wide range ofdifferent brands of products and services, or brand access sites thatsell a single brand of product or service, or both. Furthermore, a brandaccess site does not need to be located at a real property address,meaning that the location of the brand access site could be a vendingmachine, for example, or another location that does not have a realproperty address, or an address that is generally known.

For example, one embodiment of the present invention is a methodcomprising: (A) displaying, using a device, a first image associatedwith a first brand (such as a photograph or illustration associated withthe first brand); (B) receiving, from a user of the device, anindication of a selection by the user of the first image (such as by asingle mouse click on the first image); (C) identifying a first locationof the device independently of any location-specifying input provided bythe user to the device (such as by using GPS or an RFID system); (D)identifying a first brand access site at which a first branded entity(e.g., a product or service) having the first brand may be accessed; and(E) providing to the user, using the device, a first map image whichdescribes a first geographic area derived from the first location of thedevice and which includes a first indication of the first brand accesssite.

For the user to select the first image, a plurality of images (e.g.,logos) associated with a plurality of brands may be displayed to theuser. The user may select a particular one of the plurality of images.The method may provide the user with a first map image which describes afirst geographic area derived from the first location of the device andwhich indicates a first physical location of a first brand purchase siteat which the first branded entity may be purchased. The first map mayindicate a plurality of brand access site associated images representinga plurality of brand access sites at which the first branded entity maybe accessed.

The method may provide the first map image to the user by: (D)(1)identifying a plurality of brand access sites, each of which isassociated with at least the first brand; (D)(2) identifying a subset ofthe plurality of brand access sites (such as those brand access siteswithin a geographic area described by the first map), wherein eachmember of the subset is associated with the first brand; and (D)(3)providing to the user a first map image which includes, for each brandaccess site that is a member of the subset, an indication of a brandaccess site.

The user may select the first brand access site, and the method mayperform additional steps based on the user's selection. For example, themethod may dial a telephone number of the first brand access site,present to the user a web site associated with the first brand, orprovide the user with directions to the first brand access site.

The method may update the first map image over time. For example, themethod may: (E) identify a second device location independently of anylocation-specifying input provided by the user to the device; and (F) inresponse to identifying the second device location, provide to the user,using the device, a second map which describes a second geographic areaoverlapping with a location in proximity to the second device locationand which includes a second indication of a second brand access site atwhich the first brand is accessible.

Other features and advantages of various aspects and embodiments of thepresent invention will become apparent from the following descriptionand from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates a device for receiving user input and displaying amap image in response to such input according to one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 1B illustrates a graphical user interface for receiving user inputspecifying a brand according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1C illustrates a map displayed by the device of FIG. 1A andincluding indications of physical locations of brand access sites atwhich products or services having the brand specified by the user may beaccessed (e.g., purchased);

FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram of a first state of a system implementedaccording to one embodiment of the invention, prior to or during userinputs being communicated to a processor;

FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of a second state of the system of FIG.2A, after display of a map image; and

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method performed according to one embodimentof the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a device thatenables a user to view one or more brand identifying images, such as oneor more logos, on a display, and to select a particular brandidentifying image using input means to thereby enable the presentationof a map image indicating a current location of the device and showingthe locations of any one or more brand access sites for the selectedbrand that are located in proximity to the user (i.e., within thegeographic area presented on the map). The system benefits users, forexample, by facilitating the location and purchase of brands of productsand services selected by the user by automatically directing (i.e.,independently of location-specifying information provided by the user)the user to a nearby location where the selected brand of products orservices may be available for purchase.

A “brand” is defined as a distinctive identity of a collection ofrelated products or services. A “branded entity” of a particular brandis defined as a product or service having the particular brand. Forexample, a bottle of a Coca-Cola brand soft drink is an example of a“branded entity” of the Coca-Cola brand of soft drinks. A “brand accesssite” for a particular brand is defined as a location at which one ormore branded entities of the particular brand may be accessed.

In general, as used herein, branded entities of a brand may be accessed(e.g., purchased) by a consumer at one or more brand access sites. Insome instances, for example, a brand of products is marketed or soldunder a common trademark. In other instances, for example, a brand ofservices is marketed or sold under a common servicemark. One example ofa brand of products is the Coca-Cola brand of beverages. Another exampleof a brand of products is the iPod brand of consumer electronics. Yetanother example of a brand of services is the Jiffy Lube brand of oilchange services. Yet another example of a brand of services is the H&RBlock brand of tax preparation services.

Referring to FIGS. 2A-2B, an embodiment of the present invention isshown in which a brand 1 a is accessible at multiple brand access sites2 a-b. Each of brand access sites 2 a-b may be, for example, a realproperty location (e.g., a structure having an address) such as a store,shop, market, office, restaurant, service station, movie theater, eventvenue, etc. In addition, each of brand access sites 2 may be analternative type of location, such as a free-standing vending machine,kiosk, mobile sales unit, or other location where products or servicesof brand 1 a may be accessed (e.g., purchased), irrespective of whetheror not the location is associated with a real property address.

As an example, if brand 1 a is associated with Coke-branded beverageproducts (comprised of such beverages as regular Coke, Diet Coke, CherryCoke, etc.), such products may be accessed (e.g., purchased) atthousands of brand access sites, including but not limited to stores,markets, restaurants, vending machines, event venues, etc. Brand accesssite 2 locations where products or services of brand 1 a are accessiblemay remain stable (i.e., fixed in number), or may change over time, witha change in inventory levels or distribution, for example. For example,Product “Y” may be sold in 1,000 brand access sites today, and due tolarge demand, may only be available for purchase in 900 brand accesssites tomorrow (meaning, for example, that 100 of the brand access siteshave stocked out). As another example, Product “Z” may be sold in 100brand access sites today, and 200 brand access sites a year from today.

Referring to FIG. 1A, a device 10 according to one embodiment of theinvention is shown. The device 10 has a display 20, an input means 30,and an application launch means 11.

Device 10 may, for example, be a mobile phone, a wireless communicationsdevice, a personal digital assistant (PDA), computer, laptop computer,other computing device, global positioning system (GPS) unit, or othernavigation device. In general, device 10 may be any system or devicethat enables a user 80 to input a selection of a brand (by means ofselection of a brand identifying image) and view a map image indicatinga device location and showing the location(s) where products or servicesof the selected brand are accessible. The example device 10 shown inFIG. 1A is multifunctional, including functions that relate tocommunication, personal organization, etc.

In one embodiment, display 20 is an electronic display (output means) ofa type commonly found on mobile phones or similar small portablecomputing or communication devices. In another embodiment, display 20 isan electronic monitor or screen of the type commonly found on laptopcomputers. In other embodiments, display 20 may be any element ormechanism that communicates information to user 80. Display 20 may besmall or large, active or passive, high resolution or low resolution,color or monochrome, and may generally employ any type of displaytechnology. Display 20 may be any of a wide range of dimensions, from asmall size that is usable on a small mobile phone, to a size that ismore commonly found on a laptop computer, and larger. For example,display 20 may be a 5 centimeter high by 5 centimeter wide touch-screendisplay that serves as both a display 20 and input means 30. An exampleof an integrated display 20 and input means 30 is shown in FIG. 1A.

In one embodiment, input means 30 is a touch-sensitive display thatenables user 80 to view information on display 20, and then to select anelement of the information that is presented by touching the screen witha finger or other pointing or touching means. In such an embodiment,input means 30 and display 20 may be integrated into a single device. Inanother embodiment, input means 30 is a mechanical keypad. In otherembodiments, input means 30 may be any other mechanism that enables user80 to communicate information to the device 10. Other input means 30 maybe mechanical or electronic, and may involve physical or otherinteractive processes between user 80 and the input means 30. Forexample, voice commands and thought commands are two possiblealternative ways of communicating with input means 30.

In one embodiment, application launch means 11 is a virtual or physicalbutton that starts, launches, or brings into view an embodiment of theinvention on device 10. Other launch means are possible, and onepossible embodiment excludes application launch means 11 altogether.FIG. 1A shows an icon as one possible embodiment of application launchmeans 11.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1B, display 20 may show anarrangement of one or more brand identifying images 21, such as anarrangement or one or more logos. In the particular embodiment shown inFIG. 1B, brand identifying images 21 are arranged in two categories,with brand identifying images 21 a-d being shown as “favorites,” andbrand identifying images 21 e-h being shown as “popular”. Each brandidentifying image, 21 a for example, is a graphic such as a logo,picture, illustration, photograph, or any other image that identifies aparticular brand. For example, brand identifying image 21 a is an imageof a logo for Apple Inc. and may represent one or more Apple brands suchas Apple computers, iPod music players, iTV systems, and more (as analternative that is not shown, an image of an iPod may be used toidentify the iPod brand of products). As another example, brandidentifying image 21 b is an image of a logo for Starbucks Corporationand may represent Starbucks coffee and other Starbucks products orservices, for example.

In an embodiment of the invention, brand identifying images 21 aresearchable. In another embodiment of the invention, brand identifyingimages 21 are sortable. In yet another embodiment of the invention,brand identifying images 21 are arrangeable on display 20 in other ways.In yet another embodiment of the invention, brand identifying images 21may be either static or dynamic (i.e., a dynamic image is one thatchanges or moves, or that can be made to change or move).

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1C, display 20 shows a map image 25that includes one or more brand access site associated images 22.

In general, map image 25 is a visual depiction or representation of ageographic area, physical area, or space, that is rendered on display20. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1C, map image 25 shows a graphicthat includes street-level detail. Map image 25 may be rendered in coloror monochrome. Map image 25 may be labeled or unlabeled. Map image 25may be static or moving (i.e., a moving map image 25 is one that isupdated to generally correspond with the movement of device 10). Inother embodiments, map image 25 may be scalable (e.g., zoom in, zoomout), shiftable (e.g., re-centerable left or right, up or down), orrotatable (e.g., re-orientable about a point).

Map image 25 may, for example be two-dimensional or three-dimensional.Map image 25 may, for example, represent an area or space using aphotograph or photorealistic image, or using a stylized representation(such as commonly used on a street map or road atlas). Map image 25 mayor may not be drawn to scale. Map image 25 may include combinations ofvarious features just described. For example, map image 25 may include asuperimposition of a stylized representation over a photorealisticrepresentation, such as lines and street names superimposed onphotorealistic images of streets.

Preferentially, map 25 image shows a geographic area that is generallyaccessible to user 80 (i.e., a local area). Such area may be optimallyscaled for device 10 according to the movement characteristics (e.g.,speed, direction) of device 10. For example, if device 10 is being movedat a slow pace (by a person who is walking with device 10, for example),then device 10 may provide a map image 25 showing a relatively smallgeographic area that is accessible by foot. In another example, ifdevice 10 is being moved at a fast pace (by a person who is driving withdevice 10, for example), then device 10 may provide a map image 25showing a larger geographic area that is accessible by car. For example,one possible map image 25 may show an area of 100 city blocks. Inanother example, map image 25 may show an area of a square kilometer orother region. Other map image 25 areas are possible. In yet anotherexample, map area 25 may show the interior of a retail store.

In one embodiment, an example of which is shown in FIG. 1C, map image 25includes one or more brand access site associated images 22. Forexample, map image 25 shown in FIG. 1C shows two brand access siteassociated images 22 a-b, each of which is presented as a small dot(circle) that is superimposed onto (included as an element of) map image25. Each of the brand access site associated images 22 represents thelocation of a unique one of the brand access sites 2. As previouslydescribed, brand access site 2 a is a first location at which productsand/or services of brand 1 a are generally available for purchase, andbrand access site 2 b is a second location at which products and/orservices of brand 1 a are generally available for purchase.

In one embodiment, brand access site associated images 22 a-b representparticular brand access sites 2 a-b. Brand access site associated image22 a may, for example, be an image of a logo (such image of a logo maybe significantly smaller than brand identifying image 21 a, for example)identifying the corresponding brand 1 a. In another embodiment, brandaccess site associated image 22 a is an image of a product having thecorresponding brand 1 a, such as an illustration or photo (such imagemay be relatively small so as not to adversely affect the usability ofmap image 25, for example). In yet another embodiment, brand accesssite-associated image 22 a is a shape, such as a small circle (dot), asshown in FIG. 1C as brand access site associated images 22 a-b. In thecase where multiple brand access site 2 locations are represented on mapimage 25 by multiple brand access site associated images 22, each of thebrand access site associated images 22 may be unique, or each group ofrelated brand access site associated images that are affiliated with thesame brand may be the same or similar image—and different from brandaccess site associated images that are associated with other brands, forexample. For example, two different ones of the brand access siteassociated images 22 may be presented as two different colors of dots onmap image 25. Furthermore, brand access site associated images 22 mayinclude other information or indicate other characteristics. Forexample, brand access site associated images 22 may indicate theavailability (either generally, or specifically by means of indicating anumber of available units, for example) of products/services of brand 1a that are available for purchase at the particular brand access sites 2a-b represented by the particular brand access site associated images 22a-b. In another example, brand access site associated image 22 a mayindicate whether brand access site 2 a is open or closed for business atthe time of display of the brand access site associated image 22 a onmap image 25.

In summary, an embodiment of the invention has a device 10, displaymeans 20, and input means 30. Display means 20 and input means 30 may beincorporated into a single element, such as a touch-screen display.Display 20 may present one or more brand identifying images 21, each ofwhich is associated with a corresponding brand. Furthermore, display 20may present map image 25 that shows one or more brand access siteassociated images 22 a-b, which are associated with brand access sites 2a-b, respectively.

In one embodiment, represented in FIG. 2A, the invention is shown in afirst state. The term “first state” is defined as a state of the device10 prior to or during communication of a brand identifying image 21selection from device 10 to processor 50.

In one such embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A, device 10 includes display20, input means 30, and location means 40. Display 20 is shown havingtwo brand identifying images 21 a-b. In this embodiment, brandidentifying image 21 a is associated with a first brand 1 a, and brandidentifying image 21 b is associated with a second brand 1 b.

A user 80 provides user input 81 to device 10 by means of input means30. User input 81 may be an indication of a selection of a particularbrand identifying image that is of interest to user 80. For example,assume that user 80 indicates a selection of a particular brandidentifying image 21 a in order to view a map image 25 showing thelocation of brand access sites 2 associated with the particular brand 1a that is of interest to user 80. Subsequent to the communication byuser 80 of user input 81 to input means 30 of device 10, device 10(either directly or indirectly, possibly using any of a wide variety ofmeans) communicates user input data 31 (information about user 80'sselection of the brand identifying image 21 a) to processor 50. In oneembodiment, the communication of information about user 80's selectionof the particular brand identifying image 21 a from device 10 toprocessor 50 is performed wirelessly.

In one embodiment, location means 40 is any mechanism, process, or meansthat enables identification of device 10's location. For purposes of theinvention, device 10's location is intended to be reasonably specific,such as may be determined by a GPS unit, other satellite-enabledlocation identification system, or other location-identifying means.Identification of location of device 10 is performed independently oflocation-specifying information provided by user 80 to device 10. Forexample, device 10's location may be determined without any input of anaddress, zip code, etc. by user 80. In one embodiment, location means 40is physically integrated as an element of device 10, such as anintegrated GPS (or similar type of) unit. In another embodiment,location means 40 is physically separate from device 10, such asidentification of device 10 location based on triangulation by a remotesystem that includes one or more radio (e.g., cell phone) antennas, forexample. A RFID system that is associated with a RFID-enabledenvironment is another example of a possible device 10 location means40. In one embodiment, once location means 40 determines device 10'slocation, information about device 10's location—device location data41—is communicated (directly or indirectly, possibly using any of a widevariety of means) to processor 50. In one embodiment, the communicationof device location data 41 from location means 40 to processor 50 isperformed wirelessly. In another embodiment of the invention, devicelocation data 41 is communicated from location means 40 to anotherelement of a system of the invention.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A, processor 50 is a means thatuses user input data 31 and device location data 41 in order to processthis (and possibly other) data. In one embodiment, processor 50 isphysically integrated into device 10. In another embodiment, processor50 is physically separate from device 10. For example, processor 50 mayexist in a fixed location. In the case that processor 50 is physicallyintegrated into device 10, input means 30 and location means 40 maycommunicate user input data 31 and device location data 41,respectively, to processor 50 using direct physical connection (e.g.,wires), for example. In the case that processor 50 is physicallyseparate from device 10, device 10 and location means 40 may communicateuser input data 31 and device location data 41, respectively, toprocessor 50 using wireless means, for example.

In one embodiment, processor 50 receives user input data 31 thatprovides information about a selection of brand identifying image 21 aby user 80, and device location data 41 that provides information abouta device 10 location. Processor 50 may be, for example, a computer orother electronic device, or system of connected computers or electronicdevices, capable of processing the relevant information. Processor 50processes the inputs to generate a query 61 to a brand access site datarepository 60 which may be incorporated as an element of processor 50,or separate from processor 50. Brand access site data repository 60 maybe a database or any other means (or multiple databases or other means)that contains information about brand access sites 2 and other brandaccess sites (not shown). Such information may include for each of thebrands 1 a-b (and for other brands, not shown) or brand identifyingimages 21 a-h, an address, geographic coordinates, or other locationspecifying information for brand access sites relating to the particularbrand or brand identifying image, for example. Following query 61 ofbrand access site data repository 60, brand access site data repositoryresponds and communicates data 62 for processor 50, such data 62comprising information about brand access sites 2 that are associatedwith the specified brand 1 a or brand identifying image 21 a. Such data62 enables the rendering of map image 25 that includes brand siteassociated images 22. In one embodiment, brand access site datarepository 60 is located in a single location (i.e., a centraldatabase). In another embodiment, brand access site data repository 60is distributed, or located in multiple locations (i.e., information onpages that are available on multiple Internet sites). In yet anotherembodiment, brand access site data repository is an element of device10, such as a database of brand access site 2 data that is stored in amemory of device 10. Any brand access site data repository 60 containingbrand access site 2 information may be updatable.

In one embodiment, brand access site data repository 60 may be informedrelative to actual inventory or availability (e.g., number of units of aproduct that are available, starting time or times of a movie showing orother event) of products or services of the brand 1 a at each of theparticular brand access sites 2. For example, if products or services ofthe selected brand 1 a are not available at brand access site 2 a, thenparticular brand access site 2 a may not be communicated to processor 50(or, alternatively, may be communicated but not shown on map image 25 asbrand access site associated image 22 a). In another embodiment, brandaccess site data repository 60 is informed relative to actual inventoryor availability of products or services of brand 1 a at brand accesssite 2 a, and inventory or availability details are communicated bybrand access site data repository 60 to enable device 10 display 20 todisplay map image 25 having brand access site associated images 22 thatindicate, for example, the number of available units of a product orservice of brand 1 a that is being sought by user 80. Alternatively, inanother embodiment, movie starting time(s) may be indicated. Such afeature would be particularly helpful for some products that are poorlystocked or only available at certain times, or in the instance when user80 is seeking to purchase a relatively large number of units of aproduct of brand 1 a, for example. In conjunction with such a feature,the device 10 may enable user 80 to indicate the number of units theuser 80 is seeking to access (or similar parameter), in response towhich the map image 25 may only include brand access site associatedimages corresponding to brand access sites at which at least the numberof units specified by the user 80 are accessible (or at which anotherparameter is observed). The information contained in brand access sitedata repository 60 may be provided, in turn, by other systems, includingbut not limited to store inventory systems, RFID-enabled systems, eventor movie show time listings, and any other means of determining,tracking or recording the availability of products or services.

In one embodiment, processor 50 incorporates a map image data source. Inthe embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, for example, the map image datasource is an element of processor 50. In another embodiment, a map imagedata source may be separate from processor 50 and may be queried orotherwise accessed by processor 50 in order to access map image data. Insuch an embodiment, processor 50 may communicate information to the mapimage data source which may, in turn, communicate map image data back toprocessor 50 for (possibly) further processing and communication todevice 10 to enable the rendering of map image 25 on display 20.Alternatively, processor 50 may communicate information to a map imagedata source which may, in turn, communicate map image data includingbrand access site data directly to device 10 to enable the rendering ofmap image 25 on display 20. Other embodiments of accessing, processingand communicating map image data are possible, and envisioned andconsistent with embodiments of systems and methods of the invention.While there are multiple possible map image data sources available, oneexample is the Google Maps Application Programming Interface (API)provided by Google, Inc.

In one embodiment, represented in FIG. 2B, the invention is shown in asecond state. The term “second state” is defined as a state of thedevice 10 after display of a first (initial) map image 25 on device 10display 20.

In one embodiment, map rendering data 51 is communicated from processor50 to device 10, as shown in FIG. 2B. In other embodiments, maprendering data 51 may be provided to device 10 from other sources orelements of an embodiment of a system of the invention.

FIG. 2B shows many of the same elements as shown in FIG. 1A, howeverFIG. 2B differs since it represents an embodiment of the device 10 in asecond state, including showing device display 20 that now includes mapimage 25.

Map image 25 includes one or more brand access site associated images 22(although, in one embodiment, no brand access sites associated images 22would be displayed on map image 25 if no brand access sites exist withinthe geographic area indicated by the particular map image 25, forexample). Brand access site associated image 22 a represents a locationon map image 25 of a first brand access site 2 a. Brand access siteassociated image 22 b represents a location on map image 25 of a secondbrand access site 2 b. In FIG. 1C, each of the two brand access siteassociated images 22 a-b is presented as a small dot (circle) on mapimage 25. Such shape may be colored if display 20 is a color display.Map image 25 includes brand access site associated images 22 that areviewable by user 80 to facilitate user 80 identification of brand accesssites 2 where products or services of a particular brand 1 a of interestto user 80 may be accessed (e.g., purchased).

The second state may be modified (“modified second state”) to reflect anew or changed location of device 10 (and presumably the new or changedlocation of user 80 who is using device 10). For example, map image 25may be re-rendered to reflect a new or changed location of device 10.For example, if device 10 is traveling with user 80 in a moving car,then a second state may be changed to a modified second state, eitherautomatically (e.g., continuously, frequently, periodically), or byprompting (e.g., user input, setting, directive), to show a re-renderedmap image 25 that is, for example re-centered to reflect a new locationof device 10, and that shows a new set (as appropriate) of brand accesssite associated images—meaning those images for brand access sites (ifany) that are within the area described by the re-rendered map image 25.A modified second state can be repeatedly realized at various intervalsto show an updated (“moving”) map image 25 that is relevant to user 80of device 10 according to current device 10 location and device locationdata 41.

The device 10 may be returned to the first state, such as byreinitializing the device 10, or in response to input from the user 80indicating a desire to identifying brand access sites for another brand.As a result, the method 100 of FIG. 3 may be performed multiple timesusing the same device 10 to identify and display locations of brandaccess sites for different brands.

Embodiments of the invention may also allow map image 25 to be modifiedin other ways. For example, user 80 may use input means 30 to change mapimage 25 scale to provide various levels of detail (i.e., zoom in orout). Also, for example, user 80 may use input means 30 to change mapimage 25 centering (i.e., to scroll or shift the image in a desireddirection). Also, for example, user 80 may change map image 25orientation of (i.e., rotation), possibly to adjust for the orientationof display 20 when device 10 is being used. In addition, brand accesssite associated images 22 shown on map image 25 may be manipulable, ormay be selectable by user 80 using input means 30.

In the case that an embodiment of the invention further provides a meansfor user 80 to select one or more brand access site associated images 22on map image 25, such selection may, for example, provide user 80 with amenu or list of further functions. For example, user 80 may select oneof the brand access site associated images 22 to, for example: initiatea phone call to the selected brand access site, prompt (a personassociated with) the selected brand access site to contact user 80 ondevice 10, place an order for products or services of the selected brand1 a, determine inventory of products having the selected brand 1 a,check the hours of operation or availability of the selected brandaccess site, make certain brand access site associated images 22 adefault feature on all map images 25 displayed to user 80, denote aparticular one of the brand access sites 2 as a favorite, default, etc.While such a subsequent action or actions may be facilitated by a menuor list, embodiments of the invention may also be configured to enableuser 80 to access a particular action by a single click on a button (orother form of input). For example, in one embodiment, user 80 may enablea phone call using device 10 by using input means 30 to simply selectone of the (i.e., click on) brand access site associated images 22 onmap image 25. Other embodiments may include other map image 25 enabledfunctions.

FIG. 3 shows a flowchart of a method 100 according to an embodiment ofthe invention. The method 100 is initiated or launched (step 102). Thisstep may be facilitated, for example, by using a button or virtualbutton represented by application launch means 11 shown FIG. 1A.

Next, display means 20 displays a first brand identifying image, anexample of which is the brand identifying image 21 a shown in FIG. 1B(step 104 a). Optionally, display means 20 may concurrently show asecond brand identifying image, an example of which is the brandidentifying image 21 b shown in FIG. 1B (step 104 b). Display means 20may present even more brand identifying images (possibly resemblingbrand identifying images 21 c-h shown in FIG. 1B, for example). Brandidentifying images 21 may be shown or presented in a single set or insubsets, and may be searchable, sortable, arrangeable, scrollable, etc.

Next, method 100 receives user input 81 from user 80 specifying aselection of a particular brand identifying image that is associatedwith a particular brand of interest to user 80 (i.e., a brand that user80 desires to locate by means of map image 25) (step 106). Assume forpurposes of example in the following discussion that user 80 selectsbrand identifying image 21 a to indicate that user 80 is interested inbrand 1 a.

The method 100 applies user input 81 to identify brand access sites 2for the particular brand 1 a of interest to user 80 (step 108). Thisstep may be performed by processor 50 whereby processor 50 generates aquery 61 to brand access site data repository 60, in response to whichbrand access site data repository 60 replies with location-identifyinginformation about brand access sites 2 for the particular brand 1 a ofinterest to user 80. Brand access site data repository 60 may be, forexample, a single database, multiple databases, a website or websitepage, multiple websites or website pages, or other Internet-accessiblesource of information, user-generated data, or other means that may bequeried by processor 50 and which provides the relevant information.Furthermore, query 51 to brand access site data repository 60 may begeneral or specific, meaning that it could seek to identify all brandaccess sites for the selected brand 1 a (and then use only those thatare relevant to the geographic area being presented on a current mapimage 25), or it could query the brand access site data repository 60 ina manner that enables it to secure a relevant subset of data.

Another step may occur before, concurrent with, or after step 108 (step110). In step 110, method 100 identifies a location of device 10independent of location-specifying user input. As used herein,“independent of location-specifying user input” means that the method100 does not rely on user 80 to input location-specifying informationsuch as an address, zip code, phone number, etc. Rather, location ofdevice 10 is identified by the method 100, either by means that may bephysically incorporated as an element of device 10, such as a built-inGPS unit or similar technology, or that are remotely or externallyincorporated as an element of a system implemented according to anembodiment of the invention, such as by a system that usestriangulation, direction-finding, signal strength, a RFID system, orother means to determine location of device 10 independently oflocation-specifying user input.

Next, method 100 processes device 10 location (by applying devicelocation data 41) and brand access site information (by applying data62) to enable map image 25 rendering (step 112). In one embodiment, mapimage 25 rendering is supported by information supplied by a map imagedata source. Map image 25 rendering information is then communicated toenable device display 20 to render map image 25 showing a geographicarea overlapping with a location of device 10 and which includes brandaccess site associated image(s) 22 which represent brand access site(s)2 for the brand 1 a indicated to be of interest to user 80 by user 80 instep 106 (step 116). If there are no brand access sites within thegeographic area shown by map image 25, then no brand access siteassociated images will be indicated on map image 25.

Next, device 10 displays map image 25 to user 80 on display 20 (step116). Map image 25 shows a geographic area overlapping with a locationof device 10 (and presumably user 80 who is using device 10) and whichincludes brand access site associated image(s) 22 which represent brandaccess site(s) 2 for the brand 1 a indicated to be of interest to user80 by user 80 in step 106. If there are no brand access sites within thegeographic area shown by map image 25, then no brand access siteassociated images will be indicated on map image 25.

In one embodiment, map image 25 may be modified. For example, user 80may use input means 30 to change map image 25 scale to provide variouslevels of detail (i.e., zoom in or out). Also, for example, user 80 mayuse input means 30 to change map image 25 centering (i.e., to scroll orshift the image in a desired direction). Also, for example, user 80 maychange map image 25 orientation of (i.e., rotation), possibly to adjustfor the orientation of display 20 when device 10 is being used. Inaddition, brand access site associated images 22 shown on map image 25may be manipulable, or may be selectable by user 80 using input means30.

The map image 25 may display brand access site associated images whichare associated with brands not selected by the user 80 in step 106. Forexample, if the user 80 has previously selected one or more brands as“favorite” brands, the device 10 may include, in the map image 25, brandaccess site associated images associated with the user-indicatedfavorite brand(s) (if any such sites are within the area represented bythe map image 25). The map image 25 may include such representations of“favorite” brand access sites in addition to images (if any) associatedwith brand access sites corresponding to the brand selected by the user80 in step 106. Similarly, the device 10 may include, in the map image25, brand access site associated images associated with brandspreviously stored as “default” brands. As a result, the map image 25 mayinclude brand access site associated images associated with multiplebrands even if the user 80 selects only a single brand in step 106.Similarly, the map image 25 may include brand access site associatedimages associated with one or more brands even if the user 80 does notselect any brands in step 106. The user 80 may, for example, quicklyobtain a view of brand access sites associated with favorite and/ordefault brands that are currently in the vicinity of the device 10 byproviding no input in step 106. The device 10 may facilitate thisprocess by, for example, allowing the user 80 to bypass step 106 using akeypress or by issuing a “display favorites” or “display defaults”command which displays a map image illustrating brand access sites forfavorite and/or default brands in the vicinity of the device 10 withoutrequiring any further input from the user 80.

These are merely examples of ways in which the device 10 may displaybrand access sites to the user 80 for brands not previously selected bythe user 80. Another example in which a similar result is achieved isthat in which an advertisement system, such as a push advertisementsystem, displays brand access site associated images in the map image 25for brands not previously selected by the user 80. Such images may,however, be selected based on a determination of which brand(s) the user80 is likely to find of interest. Such a determination may be made, forexample, based on demographic data, previous activity of the user 80, orany of a variety of other techniques.

In the case that an embodiment of the invention further provides a meansfor user 80 to select one or more brand access site associated images 22on map image 25, such selection may, for example, provide user 80 with amenu or list of further functions. If, for example, user 80 selectsbrand access site associated image 22 a, such selection may enable theuser 80 to, for example: initiate a phone call to the brand access site2 a, have a person associated with the brand access site 2 a contactuser 80 on device 10, place an order for products or services of theselected brand 1 a, determine inventory of products or services of theselected brand 1 a, check the hours of operation or availability of theselected brand access site 2 a, make brand access site associated images22 a default feature on all map images 25 displayed to user 80, denotethe brand access site 2 a as a favorite, etc. While such a subsequentaction or actions may be facilitated by a menu or list, embodiments ofthe invention may also be configured to enable user 80 to access aparticular action by a single click on a button (or other form ofinput). For example, in one embodiment, user 80 may enable a phone callusing device 10 by using input means 30 to simply select (i.e., clickon) brand access site associated image 22 on map image 25. Otherembodiments may include other map image 25 enabled functions.

In one embodiment of the invention, a single action or manipulation ofdevice 10 input means 30 by user 80 (e.g., selection of a brandidentifying image 21), or the receipt of a single input by device 10(e.g., method 100 step 106), results in the display of map image 25showing any brand access sites 2 for the brand 1 a associated with thebrand identifying image 22 that was selected by user 80.

In one possible sample use case, the presentation of which is intendedas an example of a use of embodiments of the invention and shall notlimit the scope of the invention in any way, user 80 of a device that issimilar to device 10 shown in FIG. 1A views on display similar todisplay 20 shown in FIG. 1B an arrangement of ten images similar tobrand identifying images 21 a-f shown in FIG. 1B, each of whichrepresents one of ten different brands. For example, three imagesrepresent brands that are beverages, two of the images representfast-food products, and five of the images represent consumer durablegoods. User 80 may manipulate the images. For example, using device 10input means 30, user 80 may scroll through, or sort the images. One ofthe beverage brands, a particular soda, is of interest to user 80. User80 uses device 10 input means 30 to select the image that identifies theparticular brand (soda) of interest. Following this input indicating aselection of an image by user 80, user 80 is then presented with a mapimage, similar to map image 25 shown in FIG. 1C, that is centered aboutthe current location of device 10 (and user 80 who is using device 10).The map image in this example also includes three images showing wherethe soda product can be purchased, these images being similar to brandaccess site associated images 22 shown in FIG. 1C. The images arerepresentative of locations (e.g., stores, vending machines, etc.) thatare located nearby the user 80, and where user 80 may purchase the brandof soda of interest. User 80 uses the information to walk to a nearbylocation to buy a soda.

In this sample use case, it is notable that the user arranges (e.g.,scrolls through) and selects an image that identifies a specific brand.It is also notable that the user does not enter (e.g., input) anylocation-specifying information into the device; the systemautomatically determines a location of the device (and presumably theuser who is using the device) independent of location-specifying inputprovided by the user to the device. Furthermore, it is notable that thesystem provides information to the user about the location of placeswhere the product may be accessed (e.g., purchased).

Among the advantages of embodiments of the invention are one or more ofthe following. Embodiments of the present invention advantageouslyenable a user to use a device to select a brand-identifying image, andin response to see a (possibly moving and/or updated) map of a regionwhere the device/user is located and which indicates (such as by usingicons) locations at which the user-selected brand. Such embodimentsthereby enable the user to see where products or services of a brand(i.e., products or services of a particular brand) of interest to theuser may be available for purchase, with minimal effort from the user.For example, in one embodiment the user may cause the device to displaysuch a map simply by selecting (e.g., clicking on) the brand-identifyingimage (e.g., image of a logo). In response to this single action, thedevice and/or other components of the system may automatically identifyboth the location of the device (such as by using GPS) and locations inthe vicinity of the device at which products/services of theuser-selected brand may be accessed (such as by accessing a database ofbrand access sites). In particular, in such embodiments, the user neednot provide input specifying the user/device's current location (such asby typing in an address or zip code).

Furthermore, these techniques enable the user to enter a selection of abrand, but not a location of the user, and to be presented with a mapshowing the location(s) of brand access sites. As a result, the amountof effort required on behalf of the user is reduced in comparison tosystems which require the user to input explicit location-identifyinginformation, or which require a user to guess as to where products orservices of a particular brand might be located.

The techniques disclosed herein also enable brand manufacturers (andother parties) to promote their brands using brand identifying imagesfirst and foremost on a user interface. Embodiments of the inventionenable brand-centric marketing. Such techniques therefore represent animprovement over systems which are purely text-based or which otherwisedo not prominently display brand-identifying images to the userproactively, or which do not enable display of brand identifying imagesin such a controllable manner. For example, the logos 21 a-h in FIG. 1Bmay be displayed to the user repeatedly over time even if the user neverselects any of the logos 21 a-h. As a result, the display shown in FIG.1B would promote the brands associated with logos 21 a-h regardless ofthe user's actions. Other embodiments of the invention may enableintelligent presentation of brand-identifying images, such as logos, tousers.

The techniques disclosed herein further enable a user interested inattending a movie showing (e.g., Star Wars Episode 1) or attendinganother event (e.g., Cirque-du-Soleil Quidam) to select an image of themovie or other event, and to be presented with a map showing thelocations where the movie or other event may be viewed. Furthermore, theuser may be enabled to view information about the particular movie orother event, or the user may be enabled to select or narrow a timeframeto see a subset of locations where the movie or other event may beviewed or experienced at particular times. A movie showing or otherevent is a branded entity when it is accessible (e.g., available forviewing) at multiple locations, i.e., a motion picture showing atmultiple venues represents a collection of related products or serviceshaving a distinctive identity.

The techniques disclosed herein may also be used to enable a shopper inan interior retail environment to select an image that is representativeof a particular brand, and to be shown the in-store (aisle or shelf)location of the particular brand on a map that shows a representation ofthe interior of the retail environment.

It is to be understood that although the invention has been describedabove in terms of particular embodiments, the foregoing embodiments areprovided as illustrative only, and do not limit or define the scope ofthe invention. Various other embodiments, including but not limited tothe following, are also within the scope of the claims. For example,elements and components described herein may be further divided intoadditional components or joined together to form fewer components forperforming the same functions.

Although certain embodiments disclosed herein are used in conjunctionwith mobile devices, this is not a requirement of the present invention.Rather, the techniques disclosed herein may be used in conjunction withdevices that are fixed (such as desktop computers). Furthermore,although certain embodiments disclosed herein are used in conjunctionwith handheld devices, this is not a requirement of the presentinvention. Rather, the techniques disclosed herein may be used inconjunction with devices of any size, such as laptop and desktopcomputers.

Although certain embodiments are described herein as being used inconjunction with a wireless network connection, this is not arequirement of the present invention. Rather, the techniques disclosedherein may be used in conjunction with network communications that occurwirelessly or over wires, or more generally over any communicationsmedium. Furthermore, the techniques disclosed herein may be used inconjunction with any appropriate network protocol.

Although components of certain embodiments disclosed herein aredescribed as communicating with each other over a network, theparticular examples disclosed herein are not limitations of the presentinvention. For example, the location of the device may be identified bya component within the device itself or by a component external to thedevice which communicates with the device or with another element of theinvention. Similarly, the locations of brand access sites may beidentified by a component within the device itself or by a componentexternal to the device which communicates with the device. This mayinvolve a database or data repository.

The user may select one or more brands in any of a variety of ways. Forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 1B, the device may present the user withoutput representing a plurality of brands 1, such as a plurality oflogos that are affiliated with brands 1. Such output may, however, takeother forms. For example, the device may provide the user with images ofrepresentative examples of branded entities rather than logos.Furthermore, the device need not provide the user with a set ofsimultaneously-displayed brand identifying images. For example, thedevice may allow the user to step through images one at a time until thedesired image is found, or to utilize functions that enable searching,sorting, or other arrangement of the images.

The techniques described above may be implemented, for example, inhardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. The techniquesdescribed above may be implemented in one or more computer programsexecuting on a programmable computer including a processor, a storagemedium readable by the processor (including, for example, volatile andnon-volatile memory and/or storage elements), at least one input device,and at least one output device. Program code may be applied to inputentered using the input device to perform the functions described and togenerate output. The output may be provided to one or more outputdevices.

Each computer program within the scope of the claims below may beimplemented in any programming language, such as assembly language,machine language, a high-level procedural programming language, or anobject-oriented programming language. The programming language may, forexample, be a compiled or interpreted programming language.

Each such computer program may be implemented in a computer programproduct tangibly embodied in a machine-readable storage device forexecution by a computer processor. Method steps of the invention may beperformed by a computer processor executing a program tangibly embodiedon a computer-readable medium to perform functions of the invention byoperating on input and generating output. Suitable processors include,by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors.Generally, the processor receives instructions and data from a read-onlymemory and/or a random access memory, for example. Storage devicessuitable for tangibly embodying computer program instructions include,for example, all forms of non-volatile memory, such as semiconductormemory devices, including EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices;magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks;magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROMs. Any of the foregoing may besupplemented by, or incorporated in, specially-designed ASICs(application-specific integrated circuits) or FPGAs (Field-ProgrammableGate Arrays). A computer can generally also receive programs and datafrom a storage medium such as an internal disk (not shown) or aremovable disk. These elements will also be found in a conventionaldesktop or workstation computer as well as other computers suitable forexecuting computer programs implementing the methods described herein,which may be used in conjunction with any digital print engine ormarking engine, display monitor, or other raster output device capableof producing color or gray scale pixels on paper, film, display screen,or other output medium.

1. A method comprising: (A) displaying, using a device, a first imageassociated with a first brand; (B) receiving, from a user of the device,an indication of a selection by the user of the first image; (C)identifying a first location of the device independently of anylocation-specifying input provided by the user to the device; (D)identifying a first brand access site at which a first branded entityhaving the first brand is accessible; and (E) providing to the user,using the device, a first map image which describes a first geographicarea derived from the first location of the device and which includes afirst indication of the first brand access site, wherein the firstindication of the first brand access site comprises a second imageassociated with the first brand, located at a position in the first mapimage corresponding to the first brand access site.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein (A) comprises displaying a plurality of imagesassociated with a plurality of brands; wherein (B) comprises receiving,from the user of the device, an indication of a selection by the user ofa particular one of the plurality of images associated with the firstbrand; and wherein (E) comprises providing to the user a first map imagewhich describes a first geographic area derived from the first locationof the device and which indicates a first physical location of a firstbrand purchase site at which the first branded entity may be purchased.3. The method of claim 1, wherein (E) comprises providing to the user afirst map which describes a first geographic area overlapping with thefirst location of the device and which indicates a plurality of brandaccess site associated images representing a plurality of brand accesssites at which the first branded entity is accessible.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein (E) comprises: (E) (1) identifying a plurality of brandaccess sites, each of which is associated with at least the first brand;(E) (2) identifying a subset of the plurality of brand access sites,wherein each member of the subset is associated with the first brand;and (E) (3) providing to the user a first map image which includes, foreach brand access site that is a member of the subset, an indication ofa brand access site.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein (D) (2) comprisesidentifying a subset of the plurality of brand access sites, whereineach member of the subset is associated with the first brand access siteand has a location within the first geographic area described by thefirst map.
 6. The method of claim 4, wherein (D) (2) comprisesidentifying a subset of the plurality of brand access sites, whereineach member of the subset has at least one branded entity of the firstbrand available for access at about a time step (D) (2) is performed. 7.The method of claim 1, wherein the first image comprises a logoassociated with the first brand.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein theindication of the selection by the user comprises an indication of asingle action of the user.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein (B)comprises receiving from the user an indication of a selection by theuser of a plurality of images associated with a plurality of brands; andwherein (E) comprises providing to the user, using the device, a firstmap image which describes a first geographic area overlapping with alocation in proximity to the first device location and which includes afirst indication of the plurality of brand access sites.
 10. The methodof claim 1, further comprising: (F) receiving, from the user, inputselecting the first brand access site; and (G) performing a method basedon the input.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein (G) comprises dialinga telephone number of the first brand access site.
 12. The method ofclaim 10, wherein (G) comprises presenting to the user a web siteassociated with the first brand.
 13. The method of claim 10, wherein (G)comprises providing directions to the first brand access site.
 14. Themethod of claim 10, wherein (E) further comprises: (E) (1) providing tothe user a plurality of choices representing a plurality of methods; (E)(2) receiving from the user input selecting one of the plurality ofchoices; and wherein (F) comprises performing a method represented bythe one of the plurality of choices selected by the user.
 15. The methodof claim 10, wherein (E) (2) comprises receiving the input provided bythe user using a single action.
 16. The method of claim 1, wherein thefirst image comprises a photograph associated with the first brand. 17.The method of claim 1, wherein the first image comprises an illustrationassociated with the first brand.
 18. The method of claim 1, wherein thefirst branded entity comprises a product.
 19. The method of claim 1,wherein the first branded entity comprises a service.
 20. The method ofclaim 19, wherein the service comprises an event.
 21. The method ofclaim 19, further comprising: (F) receiving, from the user, anindication of a selection by the user of a time period during which theuser is interested in using the service; and wherein (D) comprisesproviding to the user, using the device, a first map which describes afirst geographic area derived from the first location of the device andwhich includes a first indication of a first brand access site at whichthe service is available during the user-selected time period.
 22. Themethod of claim 19, wherein the service comprises a movie showing. 23.The method of claim 1, wherein the first brand access site comprises aparcel of real property.
 24. The method of claim 1, wherein the firstbrand access site comprises a geographic location.
 25. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the first brand access site comprises a retail store.26. The method of claim 1, wherein the first brand access site comprisesa movie theater.
 27. The method of claim 1, wherein the first map imagecomprises a two-dimensional graphical map.
 28. The method of claim 1,wherein the first map image comprises an interior map.
 29. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the second image comprises a logo associated with thefirst brand.
 30. The method of claim 1, wherein the second imageassociated with the first brand comprises a photograph associated withthe first brand.
 31. The method of claim 1, wherein the second imageassociated with the first brand comprises an illustration associatedwith the first brand.
 32. The method of claim 1, wherein the secondimage associated with the first brand comprises an icon associated withthe first brand.
 33. The method of claim 1, wherein (C) comprisesidentifying the first device location using a Global Positioning System.34. The method of claim 1, wherein (C) comprises identifying the firstdevice location using a RFID system.
 35. The method of claim 1, wherein(E) comprises providing to the user a first map image which describes afirst geographic area overlapping with the first location of the device.36. The method of claim 1, wherein the first indication of the firstbrand access site indicates a characteristic associated with the firstbrand access site.
 37. The method of claim 36, wherein thecharacteristic comprises a count of branded entities of the first brandaccessible at the first brand access site.
 38. The method of claim 36,wherein the first branded entity comprises an event, and wherein thecharacteristic comprises a starting time of the first branded entity atthe first brand access site.
 39. A system comprising: display means forusing a device to display a first image associated with a first brand;reception means for receiving, from a user of the device, an indicationof a selection by the user of the first image; device location means foridentifying a first location of the device independently of anylocation-specifying input provided by the user to the device; firstbrand access site location means for identifying a first brand accesssite at which a first branded entity having the first brand isaccessible; and map image provision means for providing to the user,using the device, a first map image which describes a first geographicarea derived from the first location of the device and which includes afirst indication of the first brand access site, wherein the firstindication of the first brand access site comprises a second imageassociated with the first brand, located at a position in the first mapimage corresponding to the first brand access site.
 40. The system ofclaim 39, wherein the display means comprises means for displaying aplurality of images associated with a plurality of brands; wherein thereception means comprises means for receiving, from the user of thedevice, an indication of a selection by the user of a particular one ofthe plurality of images associated with the first brand; and wherein themap image provision means comprises means for providing to the user afirst map image which describes a first geographic area derived from thefirst location of the device and which indicates a first physicallocation of a first brand purchase site at which the first brandedentity may be purchased.
 41. The system of claim 39, wherein the mapimage provision means comprises: means for identifying a plurality ofbrand access sites, each of which is associated with at least the firstbrand; means for identifying a subset of the plurality of brand accesssites, wherein each member of the subset is associated with the firstbrand; and means for providing to the user a first map image whichincludes, for each brand access site that is a member of the subset, anindication of a brand access site.
 42. The system of claim 41, whereineach member of the subset is associated with the first brand access siteand has a location within the first geographic area described by thefirst map.
 43. The system of claim 39, wherein the first image comprisesa logo associated with the first brand.
 44. The system of claim 39,wherein the first branded entity comprises a product.
 45. The system ofclaim 39, wherein the first branded entity comprises a service.
 46. Adevice comprising: display means for displaying a first image associatedwith a first brand; reception means for receiving, from a user of thedevice, an indication of a selection by the user of the first image;device location means for identifying a first location of the deviceindependently of any location-specifying input provided by the user tothe device; map image provision means for providing to the user, usingthe device, a first map image which describes a first geographic areaderived from the first location of the device and which includes a firstindication of a first brand access site at which a first branded entityhaving the first brand is accessible, wherein the first indication ofthe first brand access site comprises a second image associated with thefirst brand, located at a position in the first map image correspondingto the first brand access site.
 47. The device of claim 46, wherein thedisplay means comprises means for displaying a plurality of imagesassociated with a plurality of brands; wherein the reception meanscomprises means for receiving, from the user of the device, anindication of a selection by the user of a particular one of theplurality of images associated with the first brand; and wherein the mapimage provision means comprises means for providing to the user a firstmap which describes a first geographic area derived from the firstlocation of the device and which indicates a first physical location ofa first brand purchase site at which the first branded entity may bepurchased.
 48. The device of claim 46, wherein the map image provisionmeans comprises: means for identifying a plurality of brand accesssites, each of which is associated with at least the first brand; meansfor identifying a subset of the plurality of brand access sites, whereineach member of the subset is associated with the first brand; and meansfor providing to the user a first map image which includes, for eachbrand access site that is a member of the subset, an indication of abrand access site.
 49. The device of claim 48, wherein each member ofthe subset is associated with the first brand access site and has alocation within the first geographic area described by the first map.50. The device of claim 46, wherein the first image comprises a logoassociated with the first brand.
 51. The device of claim 46, wherein thefirst branded entity comprises a product.
 52. The device of claim 46,wherein the first branded entity comprises a service.
 53. A systemcomprising: device location reception means for receiving an indicationof a first location of a device; first brand access site location meansfor identifying a first brand access site at which a first brandedentity having a first brand is accessible; and map image provision meansfor providing, to the device, first map rendering data for rendering afirst map image which describes a first geographic area derived from thefirst location of the device and which includes a first indication ofthe first brand access site, wherein the first indication of the firstbrand access site comprises a second image associated with the firstbrand, located at a position in the first map image corresponding to thefirst brand access site.
 54. The system of claim 53, wherein the mapimage provision means comprises: means for identifying a plurality ofbrand access sites, each of which is associated with at least the firstbrand; means for identifying a subset of the plurality of brand accesssites, wherein each member of the subset is associated with the firstbrand; and means for providing to the user a first map image whichincludes, for each brand access site that is a member of the subset, anindication of a brand access site.
 55. The system of claim 54, whereineach member of the subset is associated with the first brand access siteand has a location within the first geographic area described by thefirst map.
 56. The system of claim 53, wherein the first indicationcomprises a logo associated with the first brand.
 57. The system ofclaim 53, wherein the first branded entity comprises a product.
 58. Thesystem of claim 53, wherein the first branded entity comprises aservice.
 59. A method comprising: (A) displaying, using a device, afirst image associated with a first brand; (B) receiving, from a user ofthe device, an indication of a selection by the user of the first image;(C) identifying a first location of the device independently of anylocation-specifying input provided by the user to the device; (D)identifying a first brand access site at which a first branded entityhaving the first brand is accessible; (E) providing to the user, usingthe device, a first map image which describes a first geographic areaderived from the first location of the device and which includes a firstindication of the first brand access site; (F) identifying a seconddevice location independently of any location-specifying input providedby the user to the device; and (G) in response to identifying the seconddevice location, providing to the user, using the device, a second mapwhich describes a second geographic area overlapping with a location inproximity to the second device location and which includes a secondindication of a second brand access site at which the first brand isaccessible.
 60. A method comprising: (A) displaying, using a device, afirst image associated with a first brand; (B) receiving, from a user ofthe device, an indication of a selection by the user of the first image;(C) identifying a first location of the device independently of anylocation-specifying input provided by the user to the device; (D)identifying a first brand access site at which a first branded entityhaving the first brand is accessible; and (E) providing to the user,using the device, a first map image which describes a first geographicarea derived from the first location of the device and which includes afirst indication of the first brand access site; wherein (D) furthercomprises providing within the first map a second indication of a secondbrand access site at which a second brand, not indicated by theselection by the user, is accessible.
 61. A system comprising: displaymeans for displaying, using a device, a first image associated with afirst brand; reception means for receiving, from a user of the device,an indication of a selection by the user of the first image; firstdevice location means for identifying a first location of the deviceindependently of any location-specifying input provided by the user tothe device; first brand access site location means for identifying afirst brand access site at which a first branded entity having the firstbrand is accessible; first map image provision means for providing tothe user, using the device, a first map image which describes a firstgeographic area derived from the first location of the device and whichincludes a first indication of the first brand access site; seconddevice location means for identifying a second device locationindependently of any location-specifying input provided by the user tothe device; and second map image provision means for providing to theuser, using the device and in response to identifying the second devicelocation, a second map which describes a second geographic areaoverlapping with a location in proximity to the second device locationand which includes a second indication of a second brand access site atwhich the first brand is accessible.
 62. A system comprising: displaymeans for displaying, using a device, a first image associated with afirst brand; reception means for receiving, from a user of the device,an indication of a selection by the user of the first image; devicelocation means for identifying a first location of the deviceindependently of any location-specifying input provided by the user tothe device; first brand access site location means for identifying afirst brand access site at which a first branded entity having the firstbrand is accessible, and for providing within the first map a secondindication of a second brand access site at which a second brand, notindicated by the selection by the user, is accessible; and map imageprovision means for providing to the user, using the device, a first mapimage which describes a first geographic area derived from the firstlocation of the device and which includes a first indication of thefirst brand access site.